Gastric ulcers are erosions of the lining of the stomach. A chemical coat that prevents stomach acid from eroding into the stomach's cells typically protects the lining of the stomach. However, in some cases this protective coat is lost due to infection or hormonal imbalances. When this occurs, gastric acids begin to erode through your stomach. This leads to a peptic ulcer. Peptic ulcers have nutritional impacts that must be considered when discussing the disease.
Decrease in Appetite
One of the symptoms of a gastric ulcer is a noticeable decrease in appetite, the University of Maryland Medical Center reports. Once an ulcer begins to develop, you will begin to eat less and will have less motivation to eat. A poor appetite can cause you to eat less calories and nutrients. If this continues long term you may develop a nutritional deficiency, such as a vitamin or protein deficiency. Without the proper food intake, you may develop malnutrition and your body will be unable to get enough energy from your diet.
Unintended Weight Loss
If you are suffering from a gastric, or peptic, ulcer, you may notice that you are losing weight even though you are not trying to lose any weight. This is one of the symptoms of gastric ulcers that can have a nutritional impact on your body, according to the New York Times Health Guide. Weight loss is evidence that your body is using stored muscle and fat as a source of energy. This is usually because you are not absorbing enough energy from your diet. Even though you are attempting to eat properly, your body is still malnourished. This forces it to use up your stored fat and protein, and this causes weight loss.
Vomiting
Gastric ulcers can cause you to become nauseous and vomit, MayoClinic.com explains. Chronic vomiting of ingested food can decrease the amount of minerals, vitamins and nutrients your body needs. Even though you are eating normally, you are vomiting prior to absorbing the nutrients. This means that you are not receiving the nutrients you need to sustain many of your body's functions. Therefore, your body will be malnourished and begin to use other sources, such as muscle and fat tissue, for energy.
